Understudy performances

I don't know, but if it is, I'd probably try and go on that day just TO see the understudy! I've seen understudy's who've stolen the show, and even if they're shaky sometimes, I love seeing someone who's working their way up!

If the "star" doesn't go on, the star doesn't get paid, unless that person had some really slick contract negotiations going on. Can't think of anyone willing to give up 1/8 week salary (assuming an 8-show week) for an understudy to get onstage experience.

If the lead's an unusually taxing role, the contract might be for six shows, with right of first refusal to perform shows 7 & 8 for extra pay. That might be an instance where an understudy goes on.

Updated On: 10/17/05 at 01:22 PM

I didn't say they let them go on to be "nice" lildogs. Anyway, in this particular case, after looking around, it seems that yes, the new stand by for Tracy on the tour performed two weeks ago, both shows on Sunday, October 2 in Norfolk VA, the last day the show played in that city, and again yesterday, both shows in Boston, on the last day it played there. She's performed a total of 4 performance since she joined the tour in September (and I must say again, she's already wonderful and I'm thrilled I saw her!) It seems to me in this case, every other Sunday is her day to shine while in training. Or, at least for the last month, Keala just happened to be ill, or have to go to a wedding or funeral every other Sunday.

Updated On: 10/17/05 at 05:02 PM

We had the understudy for Phantom of the Opera touring cast in Houston and he was amazing.
When I saw Rent in NYC we had the Understudy for Cary SHields, Jay Wilkinson was his name, he was good, not terrific. The funniest thing from that show were the people sitting behind us said, "Eww an Understudy, I think we deserve a refund" THat was before he performed. He did fine.
I wonder if the Understudy is totally amazing, as in the case with POTO, what is the star or main lead of that role like?